When Carmen Negron’s mother lost her medical coverage this past year, including dental benefits, she wasn’t expecting to find a helping hand at no cost. However, after hearing about Grand Dental Smile’s free dental day, she had to go and check it out.

“I first thought to myself, ‘what’s the catch?’” she said.

Come to find out, there wasn’t one. On Sept. 20, Dr. Alexandra Khaimov sponsored the organization’s second free dental day at their Maspeth office at 69-77 Grand Ave. Anyone in need of a cleaning, extraction or dental emergency was helped at no charge.

“It’s an amazing experience because of all the people you get to help,” Khaimov said.

On the first free dental day at their Elmhurst location, Khaimov helped approximately 45 individuals through free cleanings and other procedures. Though there was a smaller turnout at their second free dental day, she stressed that helping even one person made the work worth the effort.

Khaimov explained the importance of regular dental check-ups at least every six months.

“People think because it doesn’t hurt there is not a problem,” she said. “But that is not a reason to neglect regular check-ups.”

For those without dental benefits in today’s economy, many also think that it is impossible to pay for such procedures.

“You can’t afford to neglect your dental health,” Khaimov said.

Warning signs that you need to see a dentist include bleeding gums when you brush and/or floss your teeth.

“It’s terrible when people wait to be seen and their teeth are covered with tartar,” Khaimov said. “You shouldn't want till it becomes a bigger problem.”

As for Negron and her mother, they’re on the right track with their daily dental routines. After a cavity filling for Negron and a tooth extraction for her mother, both are following up with a dentist for help with dental hygiene.

“If I hadn’t gone that day with my mom, I never would have gotten checked out,” Negron said. “It’s best to catch it early.”

Grand Dental Smile is planning other free days and events for the future. Call (718)-255-1381 or check out their website at dentistmaspethny.com.